Anxiety Support Group
Anxiety is a physical condition marked by intense and persistent feelings of distress, fear, angst or dread. General anxiety caused by routine day-to-day stresses usually passes quickly and is experienced by almost everyone at one time or another. However, such feelings that linger over time and are very difficult to cope with, and which lack a clear cause, may indicate...
My friend of 8 months suffers from anxiety and depression. As we have gotten closer she has opened up more about this. I have been reading all I can about anxiety. I specifically look for articles on how to be a support and how to be understanding. I'm wondering how has a loved one, family or friend helped you during a tough time? I'm hoping to hear from first hand experiences. My friend is seeing a therapist, so I avoid trying to give unwanted advice or try to solve her concerns. Instead I try to be a listening ear, reassure her that I'm here for her and that I love her. I'm wondering what else I can do, because I want to stay by her side so she doesn't have to face this alone anymore.
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Hello- I am new to the group
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Jay's podcasts are really good. I watch them on YouTube for free. Today, I watched his video about motivation. In fact, I've been watching a few videos on this subject. Jay gave us an assignment to complete the following sentence: I am stuck because? I don't describe myself as stuck, but to finish the sentence, I would say that I am stuck because I am tired. When I have energy, I do...
You've taken the important first step in writing it out.
Listening with empathy instead of quickly replying and be careful with your words and actions (even breathing and calming tone) will help naturally reduce the raised anxiety level.
I do not believe I have ever found a greater comfort than a friend who can be ". . .a listening ear, reassure her that I'm here for her and that I love her." Such friends are deities in my healing halls. The ones who have been able to continue doing so for years are beyond measure.
Please don't undervalue what you are already doing. Keep on keeping on, my healing angel.
Welcome to the group! Listen to what your friend wants to say and after she talks, let her feel that you are there for her.
One of my friends had panic attacks because of the pandemic. She would call me and cry because she was so scared. I listened patiently until she’s comforted. I also sent her words of encouragement to let her know that she’s not alone.
Also, one of my sisters used to struggle with severe anxiety. I sent her messages almost everyday to let her know that someone is there for her. I also encouraged her to join a life group to help her feel less lonely.
Both of them are getting better. Their moods had improved.
You are doing a great job in helping your friend. Keep it up. Your time and love are very much appreciated. Having a friend to talk to is very important when someone is going through anxiety. Please keep us posted. God bless.
It really helped to have someone reminding me to stay in the moment. He has a couple member of his families that have struggled with anxiety as well. Sometimes they need space and time. Other times, they need a minimization of risks.
Counseling was probably one of the most helpful things for me to get through my anxiety and to utilize better coping skills. Is there any way that you can encourage your friend to get counseling?
Keep on listening and encouraging as you have been.